Research and analysis

Nature security assessment on global biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and national security

This strategic assessment explores how global biodiversity loss and the collapse of critical ecosystems could affect the UK’s resilience, security and prosperity.

• From: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
• Published: 20 January 2026

Documents

National security assessment on global ecosystems

PDF, 2.54 MB, 14 pages

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Details

This assessment is an analysis of how global biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse could affect UK national security.

It shows how environmental degradation can disrupt food, water, health and supply chains, and trigger wider geopolitical instability. It identifies 6 ecosystems of strategic importance for the UK and explores how their decline could drive cascading global impacts.

This assessment, which was developed by analysts and experts across HM Government, supports long-term resilience planning. Publishing the assessment highlights opportunities for innovation, green finance and global partnerships that can drive growth while safeguarding the ecosystems that underpin our collective security and prosperity.

Published 20 January 2026